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None more so than Merson, who didn't predict an Albion win until many weeks into the season, but has slowly changed his tune about the Baggies.

"Arsenal will have to defend very well at set plays and I think this could be a bit of a banana skin for Arsenal," the former Arsenal midfielder said.

"I am going to go 2-2, which will be a nightmare result for their top-four hopes.

"You always think Arsenal are going to be vulnerable from set plays, they are not the biggest team in the world, so Arsene Wenger will probably have to play Olivier Giroud in this game, even if he does not want to.

Arsenal's Olivier Giroud celebrates

"So you are sort of changing your team for the other team and I would be surprised if Giroud does not play in this game, in fact I would be shocked if I am being honest.

"It is a good time to play West Brom, but at the same time, they are safe and will want to put on a show for their fans, there is no doubt about that.

"They had a go against Palace, and Palace caught them on the counter with their last one, but it was not one of those games where they got absolutely battered.

"They are at home, playing Arsenal, and this is what the fans turn up for week in, week out. And Tony Pulis will make sure they are not going to lie down for anybody."

Former Manchester United and Chelsea play maker Wilkins acknowledged Albion's shrewd recruitment and a change in philosophy as driving forces behind the club's fine season.

"They (Arsenal) are going into a place whereby West Brom are having the season of their lives," he said.

"Livermore's come in, Chadli's come in from Tottenham.

"Tony is starting to develop a little bit more of a football side.

"The signing of Fletcher a couple of years ago was absolutely a masterstroke because he adds that winning mentality and the dressing room becomes something a little bit different.